Response

Aaron,

It was really great to hear from you after so many years. I'd ask what you've been up to, but hey, I already know that. I mean, I am Santa Claus. Everything is going pretty well at the North Pole. As you can imagine, things are pretty hectic right now. The elves always get themselves into a panic after Thanksgiving. I just have to remind them that we haven't missed a Christmas Eve yet, we're not going to fall behind this year. That little pep talk never really works though.

Mrs. Claus has been keeping herself busy. She bakes like a madwoman. She's been toying with the idea of starting a mail-order bakery for the last hundred years or so. Now that this internet thing has taken off, she's even thinking about starting the business online. I support the idea 100%. It would definitely be a nice way to make some extra money, since I do the toy thing pro bono. I'm hoping to save up enough money to get myself one of those new flat screen televisions. I hear they're nice.

As for your list, I've done a lot of thinking on that. While it is noble of you to ask for peace and happiness for those you love, there are some things that even Santa can't give. It always breaks my heart to see families and friends torn apart at any time of the year, but especially at Christmas. I can hand out reminders of the love that can be found, but really that's no more than what you have the power to do yourself. Unfortunately, an encouraging word is all I can offer, and I pray that it can serve as a reminder of the love that only comes from God. The blessings of peace and joy are things that can only come from Him. People just forget to go to Him with those requests.

Sadly, it seems that I have become the symbol for commercialism during the Christmas season. I started this gig so long ago attempting to spread some Christmas cheer, giving to those in need. And now, especially in your country, little kids flock to the malls to beg my helpers for expensive items that they'll just take for granted a month after Christmas. I know, I've seen it a million times.

As for your job search and your current residential relocation, I'm afraid you're on your own. I don't necessarily mean that as a bad thing though. You've grown up to become someone who tries very hard to be self reliant. But don't forget that one of the most grown-up things that you can possibly do is to ask for help when you need it. Just try not to go so far as to become a mooch. People tend to not like that.

And I'll see what I can do about that Batman film. I'll check my list one more time, but I'm pretty sure you're on the nice side. Just watch your step in the next couple weeks. A lot can still happen between now and Christmas. Say hello to your sister for me. And have a Merry Christmas!

S. Claus